Getting Here; Weather:
-- LEAD STORY: Masks Now Voluntary at SXM Airport
-- Southwest, Jet Blue Named Top US Airlines: J. D. Power
-- Airport Refinances Its Debt: Why It Matters to Tourists
-- Why You Should Keep an Eye on Breeze Airways...
-- Exactly Where to Find Our "Guide to SXM Entry Requirements / Return to US Requirements"(Updated)
-- What To Do If Your Flight is Canceled Or Delayed...
-- Where to Find Current SXM Weather Info
-- First 2022 Tropical Wave Appears Off Africa
-- As Hurricane Season Begins, Here's How to Be Sure You're Properly Prepared
SXM Accommodations:

-- For SXM Condo Buyers, Some Critically Important Advice
-- Hundreds of SXM Timeshare Condo Rentals Available for '22 and Lots for 2023
-- Realtors to See for SXM Condos & Villas
-- Buying a Condo in SXM: Important Procedural Help (including Residency)
-- How To Rent Out Or Sell Your Timeshare Units

Other Island Headlines for Tourists:

-- Holy Croissant! The US Dollar is Now Worth More than the Euro
-- Second Minor Quake in a Week Opens Eyeballs in Gustavia, St. Barth
-- Travel Plans to SXM INCREASING As US Gas Prices Peak
-- Philipsburg Marketplace Being Re-imagined & Rebuilt with Royal Caribbean's Sponsorship
-- Some Restaurateurs Starting to Plan Annual Closings (September)
-- What Summer Weather Is Like in SXM
-- Megayachts Moving Out for the Summer
-- The Bizarre Story of a Seized Superyacht
-- A Gift You May Not Have Thought About for for College-Bound Kids, Grandkids
-- Critical Reminder: SXM Is Paradise, Not Utopia
-- Our Six-Vacation Giveaway is Still Slated for June; How to Enter & What You Can Win
-- Two New SXM Euro Oval Stickers Now Available; Where to See Them & How to Order -- Message To Weekly News Readers from Jeff Berger -- Restaurant of the Week:
-- Parking in Downtown Philipsburg
-- First Responders Now Get Platinum Benefits
-- Please Patronize JMB Sponsors

Please see our complete Table of Contents below.

Scroll down for our complete Table of Contents

Timeshare Rental and Sale of the Week

Each week JMB randomly picks timeshare condominiums for rent and for sale in SXM from the huge selection at http://everythingsxm.com/sxm/timeshare_rent_sale/index.shtml and features them here.

To rent out or sell timeshares you own in SXM or anywhere else worldwide, for no ad charge or commission, join JMB Website Supporters. Visit http://everythingsxm.com/sxm/about_sxm/paypal.shtml for info. Membership now delivers a growing list of about 300 St. Maarten and St. Martin-focused travel benefits -- and your membership subscription helps keep these weekly SXM newsletters coming.

SXM Timeshare Rental of The Week:

RENTAL 12/30/2022 1/6/2023 Week 52 Royal Palm Beach Resort 2 Bedroom 2 Full Bath Sleep 6 3rd Floor Oceanfront Condo, Completely Remodeled 2021, living room w/sleeper sofa, full kitchen w/granite counter tops, dining area, cable TV in living room and each bedroom, breathtaking views from master bedroom, living room & balcony. Resort faces west for beautiful sunsets. Onsite restaurant and many more within walking distance. A supermarket is also located within walking distance. Activity desk to book your island excursions, boat trips, jet skis, scuba diving, snorkeling, etc. $50 timeshare tax upon check-in. $2,400 per week David 914-588-1897 djpartelow@gmail.com

See them all at http://everythingsxm.com/sxm/timeshare_rent_sale/index.shtml

SXM Timeshare Sale of The Week:

SALE 11/6/2022 11/13/2022 Week 45 Flamingo Beach Club Beautifully renovated studio, sleeps 4, water view overlooking the pool. $5,000.00 Marie mobolero@hotmail.com

See them all at http://everythingsxm.com/sxm/timeshare_rent_sale/index.shtml

Villa Rentals Now Offered On Our Site Too:

St. Maarten / St. Martin Homes, Villas, Businesses, Commercial Properties, and Residential Properties for Sale (NEW): Click to access our recommended real estate agents

TABLE OF CONTENTS -- This Week's Stories

Stories are numbered; scroll down for stories of interest. This week's Table of Contents follows these links:

"Like" Our "Everything St. Maarten / St. Martin / SXM" Facebook Group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/mysxm

"Like" Our All-New "Everything St. Maarten / St. Martin / SXM" MeWe Group
https://mewe.com/join/jeffbergerseverythingsxmmewegroup

Search the SXM Weekly News Archives:
Current Archives (Since 4/2014) in PDF Format:
http://everythingsxm.com/sxm/free_newsletters/sxmweeklynews.shtml

Archives prior to April 12 2014 (old format):http://everythingsxm.com/cgi-bin/dada/mail.cgi?flavor=archive;list=sxmweeklynews
Check Out Our Linked-In "St. Maarten and St. Martin Travelers" Group (Free; Timeshare Focus): www.linkedin.com

Get a growing group of about 300 SXM-focused island discounts and other SXM-related benefits through JMB Website Supporters membership: http://www.everythingsxm.com/sxm/about_sxm/paypal.shtml

Complete Table of Contents

Section One: Getting Here: Flights, Airlines, Airports, Cruises, Going Home, Etc./ Weather --Scroll Down To This Section--

Getting Here:

1. LEAD STORY: Masks Now Voluntary at SXM Airport
2. Southwest, Jet Blue Named Top US Airlines: J. D. Power
3. Airport Refinances Its Debt: Why It Matters to Tourists
4. Why You Should Keep an Eye on Breeze Airways...
5. Where to Find our Guide to SXM Entry Requirements
6. Got a Spare $45,000? You May Need It, In Cash in Advance, to Get a Medevac Jet Home in a Medical Emergency
7. What To Do If Your Flight is Canceled Or Delayed...

Etc.; Weather
8. First 2022 Tropical Wave Appears Off Africa
9. As Hurricane Season Begins, Here's How to Be Sure You're Properly Prepared
10. Where to Find The Latest SXM Weather Information

Section Two: Accommodations (Hotels, Resorts, Timeshares, Villas, Etc.)
--Scroll Down To This Section--

10a. For SXM Condo Buyers, Some Critically Important Advice
11. Hundreds of SXM Timeshare Condo Rentals Available for '22 and Lots for 2023
12. Realtors to See for SXM Condos & Villas
13. Buying a Condo in SXM: Important Procedural Help (including Residency)
14. How To Rent Out Or Sell Your Timeshare Units
15. SkyMed TRAVEL Guarantees Big-Time Savings on Hotels, Cruises, Car Rentals

St. Maarten / St. Martin Homes, Villas, Businesses, Commercial Properties, and Residential Properties for Sale (NEW): Click to access our recommended real estate agents

Section Three: JMB Member Discounts & Benefits
--Scroll Down To This Section--

16. Reminder: $100 Jewelry Gift Card Emails Sent to All JMB Website Supporters Members: News About JMB Member Discounts / Benefits Updates (Updated 1/31/22) How To Get Yours
17. Reminder: JMB Members May Now Advertise Both Timeshare Weeks They Own and Privately Owned SXM Condominiums for Both 2022 and 2023 On Our Site
18. JMB Website Supporters Island Discount Program Major Update Expected to Complete Late This Summer...
19. Updated Contact Information for JMB Communications, JMB Website Supporters Members

Section Four: Island News, Info, & Features
--Scroll Down To This Section--

20. TRAVELING ANYWHERE THIS SUMMER, FALL, or NEXT WINTER? Read This Huge News from SkyMed: Up To 22 Weeks FREE (PLUS Military/First Responder Free Weeks) with New Multiyear SkyMed Purchases ===Only $1.64/day Gets You Guaranteed Renewable, Price-Guaranteed-Forever SkyMed Annual or Multiyear Medevac Protection;

21. THE STORY: What SkyMed Medevac Protection Is, Where & How It Works, and More

22. Answering Your Questions: What Does SkyMed Actually Do?
-----An Important Message from Jeff Berger

23. Holy Croissant! The US Dollar is Now Worth More than the Euro
24. Second Minor Quake in a Week Opens Eyeballs in Gustavia, St. Barth
25. Travel Plans to SXM INCREASING As US Gas Prices Peak
26. Philipsburg Marketplace Being Re-imagined & Rebuilt with Royal Caribbean's Sponsorship
27. Some Restaurateurs Starting to Plan Annual Closings (September)
28. What Summer Weather Is Like in SXM
29. Megayachts Moving Out for the Summer
30. The Bizarre Story of a Seized Superyacht
31. Is a Superyacht Worth USD$4.8Billion (with a "B")?
32. A Gift You May Not Have Thought About for for College-Bound Kids, Grandkids
33. Critical Reminder: SXM Is Paradise, Not Utopia
34. Our Six-Vacation Giveaway: How to Enter & What You Can Win
35. Two New SXM Euro Oval Stickers Now Available; Where to See Them & How to Order
36. How You Can Help Us Continue to Avoid a JMB Website Supporters Island Discount Program 2022 Price Increase...
37. What Are the Best Sources of Accommodations Rentals?
38. Enormous Library of SXM Information is On The Web
39. Flying This Summer? Here's Something You Should Know
40. Restaurant of the Week
41. Getting Answers to All Your Questions About SXM
42. Important Updated Contact Information for JMB Website Supporters & SkyMed Sales Inquiries
43. Who Our Sponsors Are, and Why You Should Patronize Them
44. Join Our New Conversational SXM Group on MeWe, the Facebook Alternative
45. First Responders / Military / MDs & Nurses Now Get Platinum Benefits
46. Want to See Back Issues of SXM Weekly News? Here's How
47. SXM Business Owners: How To Increase Foot & Web Traffic

Section Five: For Members Only (Revised 8/2017)

A. Where to Get Member Info: www.everythingsxm.com/secret
B. Password Recovery Info: Your username is the email address you have registered with JMB Website Supporters. If you forget your password, click "forgot password" in the orange login box near the masthead at www.everythingsxm.com.
C. How To Submit Rental or Sale Ads: Links are on the Secret Website (see a, above.)

Section Six: Where To Find Background Information for Travelers (For New Readers) (Revised 8/2017)

How To Get a GROWING LIST of 300+ Money-Saving St. Maarten- and St. Martin-Focused Travel Benefits
Visit http://www.everythingsxm.com/secret , the *secret* site for JMB Website Supporters members only, for low fares to SXM from cities across the USA, Canada, and Western Europe, plus a growing list of 300+ additional major travel benefits.

Not a member yet? See http://everythingsxm.com/sxm/about_sxm/paypal.shtml . Cost: $59 for one year, or $99 total for three full years. Other durations available. Join us today...

**********************************************************************
All JMB Newsletters Read *From JMB*
**********************************************************************
This newsletter and mail from JMB Website Supporters to members read *From JMB* in the subject area so you won't misinterpret them as spam.

THIS WEEK'S STORIES:

Stories are numbered; scroll down for stories of interest.

SECTION 1: Getting Here: Flights, Airlines, Airports, Cruises, Covid, & Weather; Etc.

GETTING HERE:

1. LEAD STORY: Masks Now Voluntary at SXM Airport

SXM Airport late last week said facemasks are now voluntary there.

In its announcement, SXM airport said that facemasks are now voluntary inside the terminal and FBO (private jet) terminal buildings. Their announcement said that the decision was based upon European and US government decisions making facemasks optional on US and European flights.

The Covid Pandemic, however, is not over. New variants continue to evolve and unprotected people tend to get sick and have worse outcomes than protected people — both those who are fully vaccinated and those who continue to use masks in areas with significant public exposure.

We hope many of our readers will continue to use the same effective precautions that have enabled us to makes substantial progress over the last two years in the battle against Covid 19.

2. Southwest, jetBlue Named Top US Airlines: J. D. Power

J. D. Power, the consulting organization that ranks consumer satisfaction with a number of products and services, has ranked JetBlue as the top US airline in terms of premium experience and Southwest Air as the top economy airline. See the full story here.

The story is particularly interesting because JetBlue only introduced its Mint premium service (which is never called First-Class) only a few years ago, and it has achieved rave reviews even with people who traditionally fly first class on the larger legacy carriers that normally offer it.

Southwest came out on top in ratings for economy flying; it boasts fierce customer loyalty, as does jetBlue despite recent flight cancellation problems related to staffing issues.

JetBlue services SXM through a variety of gateways in the Eastern US, and Southwest has said that it is a matter of when, not if, concerning its desire to launch service from the US to SXM. We will continue to cover airline industry news here as it relates to carriers serving SXM.

3. Airport Refinances Its Debt: Why It Matters to Tourists

A few months ago, in an interview with top officials of SXM Airport, we saw and reported that SXM Airport was looking at preclearance as a prospective follow-on to completion of the reconstruction of SXM Airport which will happen within the next 18 months — by the end of 2023. Southwest air, which has been interested in providing service to SXM for several years, has said in the past that it would like to see preclearance installed and operating before it comes to SXM.

Preclearance enables overseas airports to offer US customs and immigration services at participating airports, which means that flights bound for the US that are processed by these facilities can land at any US airport as a regular domestic US flight, with no need to go through customs and immigration again in the US.

Although the program is great for passengers, it represents a huge investment to the nation offering the service. SXM recently announced that cost as approximately US$60-million for startup alone, not counting several million dollars per year for operating costs and housing US customs and immigration personnel in SXM.

Airport officials told us that they are in favor of installing preclearance in SXM provided that they can do it once the airport is back in full operation and has regained its pre-hurricane level of fiscal stability and financial good health. The fact that it has refinanced its debt should help it achieve those objectives faster than might otherwise be possible — which is why it's of more than the usual degree of significance to passengers who live in the US.

Here is the official story on the refinancing.

PRINCESS JULIANA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT ANNOUNCES SUCCESSFUL DEBT REFINANCING TRANSACTION

SIMPSON BAY, St. Maarten (May 12, 2022) On May 11, 2022, Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIAE) completed the successful refinancing of its 2012 indenture, with borrowings under a new term loan facility in the amount of USD 90 million.

The new facility has been closed at more favorable terms and a reduced interest rate of 4,75%, which allows PJIAE to stabilize its much needed cash position. By taking advantage of low borrowing costs and actively managing its near- and medium-term maturity profile, PJIAE has enhanced its ability to invest in future financial stability and growth. This step is consistent with PJIAE’s strategy to build the airport for the future of Sint Maarten.

Ben van der Klift, Chief Financial Officer of PJIAE ‘Today’s announcement is an important step forward and another vote of confidence in PJIAE and it underscores our transformation into an airport with strong ambitions for the future. With the announcement of this oversubscribed refinancing, and our continued strong performance through Q1 of 2022, we have positively repositioned PJIAE, while enhancing our financial flexibility.

However, we’re not out of the woods yet.

Hurricane Irma and COVID-19 has had a deep impact on the performance and results of our airport in the last five years and we are on the road to recovery in the coming years’.

PJIAE was able to find the necessary funding within the former Netherlands Antilles and is extremely excited to report that most of the funds (46%) came from St. Maarten institutions, 39% from Curacao based institutions and 15% from Aruba based institutions. AIB Bank N.V. from Aruba acted as mandated lead arranger and RBC Bank N.V., a St. Maarten based financial institution, will be the security and facility agent.

The refinancing of the loan facility would not have been accomplished without the honorable Prime Minister, Minister of Finance, and the Minister of TEATT of Sint Maarten. The Management Board of PJIAE N.V. extends their gratitude for their relentless support during the entire re-financing process.

4. Why You Should Keep an Eye on Breeze Airways...

Over the years, we have often written about David Neeleman. He's the serial entrepreneur in the airline business who founded WestJet, JetBlue, Azul Airways in South America, Morris Air, and more recently the rapidly expanding Breeze Airways here in the US.

Until recently, Breeze was flying routes between cities outside of major metropolitan areas where there was demand for service on a point-to-point basis but where no service was actually being offered. However in March of this year, Neeleman announced an expansion which includes major metropolitan airports, among them Los Angeles and San Francisco. The airline is also offering comparatively inexpensive first class seats on some flights, though those fares are experimental and will only be available if demand stays sufficient.

Both jetBlue and WestJet, previously founded by Mr. Neeleman, now routinely fly to SXM, some from multiple cities. As we have said before here, we fully expect Breeze Airways to fly to SXM at least weekly from one or more of its US gateways once preclearance has been established in SXM (see the story about SXM airport refinancing above). We are convinced it will do this — and we see such service as a win-win for everyone concerned.

5. Where to Find Our Guide to SXM Entry Requirements / Return to US Requirements (Updated)

Tens of thousands of tourists will be visiting SXM this summer and fall, with hundreds of thousands coming next winter. Planning for all of these visits is well underway.

Our Guide to Entry Requirements (Second Edition, just updated) simplifies SXM Entry Requirements to make it easier for our readers to understand exactly what the island is looking for and to successfully navigate SXM's Electronic Health Authorization System (EHAS) website, through which visitors to SXM must still apply for the required preapproval.

To access the just-updated second edition of our Guide to Entry Requirements, which is free, go through this link (revised) to the files area of our Everything SXM Facebook Group. You should be able to access the file easily if you are already a Facebook member.

Further updates may happen as the number of hospitalizations on the island stays very low. See next story.

6. Got a Spare $45,000? You May Need It, In Cash in Advance, to Get a MedEvac Jet Home in a Medical Emergency

$45,000 or more payable in cash in advance could be what you must pay out-of-pocket should you need emergency medical evacuation while traveling anywhere in the USA, Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, the Bahamas, or anywhere in the Caribbean. By contrast, SkyMed Takes You Home® for zero dollars when you become critically ill or injured in any of those countries if you are a SkyMed member. All it takes is one phone call and SkyMed does everything. That $45,000 you might have to spend without SkyMed assumes that you can make all the arrangements, find and hire the jet, make sure it is properly outfitted for the specific medical problems you face, staff it with appropriate medical professionals who are cleared to travel back home to the US or Canada, and take care of customs, immigration, and loads of other paperwork including Ambulances and getting your records to your Destination hospital. By contrast, SkyMed does all of that and its members pay $0 for the evacuation or ambulances.

Setting up medical evacuations sounds complicated because it is — and having to do all this in a medical emergency is a daunting task for anyone who has never done it. For about $1.64/day for an annual or multiyear SkyMed membership, SkyMed will do all of this stuff once you make that single quick phone call.

For more information, call us today at 508-591-3483 or Jeff.Berger@skymed.com. Include your phone number and time zone so we can call back and get all your questions answered. We can also take your application by phone in roughly 10 minutes.

7. What To Do If Your Flight is Canceled Or Delayed...

What should you do if your flight is canceled or delayed as happens fairly often now due to winter weather or omicron related issues?

This recently published article gives you exact answers.

Etc./Weather

8. First 2022 Tropical Wave Appears Off Africa
Did you roll your eyes when you saw this headline? There's actually no reason to, since dozens and dozens of waves appear in the tropics every year and most of them don't turn into tropical cyclones.

Nonetheless, it's that time again, starting roughly in mid-May when we may see some tropical activity including tropical waves begin to spin-up in the tropics.

Here is a local Forecaster who can explain this phenomenon far better than we — please listen to this entire video for some enlightening information.

See the other weather-related stories in this section for more.

9. As Hurricane Season Begins, Here's How to Be Sure You're Properly Prepared

Compiled by NOAA and the National Hurricane Center, this information can help everyone who is ever in the path of any tropical cyclone make it through that event. For your own safety, download this document and save it after reading; feel free to share it with others.

10. Where to Find The Latest SXM Weather Information

Although hurricane season officially begins June 1, nonetheless it's best to be prepared before then. In recent years, tropical activity has begun around mid-May. Stay in touch with any or all of these sources of tropical weather information...

Here are SIX sources of current SXM weather info:

1) Crown Weather Services whose very inexpensive subscription service is, we feel, the best in the business.
2) Our "Weather Center / Hurricane Center" at www.everythingsxm.com -- it has current satellite images and radar loops 24/7/365 and now all the latest NHC weather forecasts, outlooks, and advisories as well. There are now also active weather widgets on the site's home page. That page also includes real-time or near-real-time satellite images and radar loops.
3) Our Everything SXM Facebook Group publishes the latest advisories, watches, and warnings when SXM is threatened by any storms.
4) On or off the island, listen to Island 92 -- 91.9FM or see www.island92.com. They report island warnings at once so you'll know exactly what's going on. You can listen on the web anytime through live streaming.
5) For a quick look at weather radar exactly where you are or where you're going, try the My Radar phone app or My Radar for Windows -- excellent programs.
6) Get a quick, current satellite look at the Atlantic basin anytime: http://www.goes.noaa.gov/GIFS/ATWV.JPG .

N. B.: Again...Never rely on any website if you're in the path of a storm; always heed warnings from local authorities.

In addition… When storms form or pass near SXM, we expect to run the latest forecasts, watches, warnings, and observations in our Everything SXM Facebook Group, and we will post all of that material directly in the weather center of our everything SXM website, www.everythingsxm.com.

SECTION 2: Accommodations: Hotels, Resorts, Timeshares, Villas Etc

10a. For SXM Condo Buyers, Some Critically Important Advice

Moving to the Caribbean requires a multi-step procedure that involves different citizenship programs. While territories in the Caribbean region have made relocation to the Caribbean easier for people, it’s still a meticulous process. It’s best to go through the application with seasoned immigration consultants.

Our partner BrightPath Caribbean is an expert immigration agency that has helped countless people move to their slice of paradise in the tropics. Investors, retirees, and skilled workers who were assisted by the BrightPath team now enjoy life in the land of sun, sea, and sand.

By working with BrightPath’s immigration consultants, you don’t have to deal with the nitty-gritty of the complicated immigration process. Plus, you avoid delays and increase your chances of approval.

Moving, retiring, and opening a business in Sint Maarten (country abbreviation SXM) all involve complicated, multi-step processes. So leave the nitty-gritty to professionals who are well-versed in immigration and the business climate in this Caribbean country.

BrightPath Caribbean makes your move to Sint Maarten smooth-sailing and fuss-free. You no longer have to deal with complicated paperwork or complex immigration, incorporation, or retirement procedures. Our consultants in Sint Maarten will oversee everything so that you can focus on the important thing — your new life in paradise.

Moving to St. Maarten
BrightPath Caribbean provides various services to prepare for your relocation, retirement, or venture in Sint Maarten.

Immigration Services
Our team handles immigration matters for individuals who want to relocate to St. Maarten. Moving to this country is no easy task, but the effort is more than worth it. Its beautiful beaches and scenery make it seem like you’re on vacation all year round.

BrightPath immigration consultants in Sint Maarten:

Walk you through the various immigration avenues in Sint Maarten, including investment, employment, family reunification, cohabitation agreements, and more
Collect required documents based on the avenue for immigration and review them for completeness and accuracy
Oversee the entire application process and guide you every step of the way

Business Incorporation Services
Our business incorporation consultants see to it that you start your company on the right legal footing. You’ll get expert-level guidance in:

Business License. Our experts deliver reliable advice about the right business license for your company if you haven’t applied for one yet. We also guide you in applying for the license in St. Maarten.
Name Search. BrightPath consultants check if your chosen business name is available. If not, we can work with you to form a cleared name.
Preparing the Articles of Incorporation. Our team prepares and makes sure the paperwork is complete and error-free. We’ll also be the ones to file the articles of incorporation.

Business Banking Services
Our team opens bank accounts for existing or planned businesses in SXM to make sure your company starts on the right financial footing. You’ll be assisted as you:

Choose Your Bank. Our consultants review your business’s banking needs, as well as your in-person and online banking preferences, to help you choose the right bank. Our goal is to find a bank that provides scalable solutions and day-to-day banking convenience.
Gather Requirements. Our team helps you collect the required documents and review them for accuracy and completeness. We’ll also be the ones to submit them and set an appointment with your chosen bank in Sint Maarten.
Sign Forms. You simply attend the appointment and sign the forms.

Retirement Planning Services
You’ll develop a personal retirement planning strategy that takes into account your personal financial goals, the financial risks you face, and the kind of life you want to lead during your golden years in the Caribbean. Our retirement service consultants in Sint Maarten:

Help you set clearly defined goals for your retirement in St. Maarten
Improve tax efficiency and help you maximize your benefits
Plan your legacy in case you want to leave something to your grandchildren or a charitable institution

Sint Maarten Awaits:
There’s more to Sint Maarten than beautiful beaches and breathtaking landscapes. The culinary scene is rich and diverse, representing over 100 nationalities, including French cheeses and Mediterranean wines. The shopping experience is divine, and the festivals are spectacular.

If you’re eyeing St. Maarten for your retirement or new venture, then you’ve made the right choice.

11. Hundreds of SXM Timeshare & Condo Rentals Available for 2022 and Now 2023

Dozens of new listings of timeshare and other condominiums for rent and for sale for both 2022 and 2023 have been added to our timeshare sales / rental page in our main SXM site, www.everythingsxm.com.If you're looking for a place to stay, that's where to find it. All of our listings are from members of our JMB Website Supporters island discount program so you deal directly with timeshare owners -- there are no middlemen or agents or anyone else charging commissions. Usually, timeshare owners charge close to their actual annual maintenance fee costs.

Dozens more new entries were posted over the last couple of weeks.

12. Realtors to See for SXM Condos & Villas

The following list of our sponsor realtors tells you how to contact SXM's best sources of condos and villas across the island:

VILLA RENTALS / RENTAL COMPANIES:

If you're interested in making a villa reservation (doing it with close friends can be fun and more economical than you'd imagine), contact our top recommended Villa rental/sale partners at Island Real Estate Team. Call the number that follows and ask to speak with the agent who handles villa rentals: 1 721 520 7284. Please let the agent know that you're interested in a rental and you were referred by Jeff Berger's Everything SXM Facebook Group. Hundreds of villas are now online.

Jennifer's Vacation Villas has also joined us as a villa rental partner. Jennifer's Vacation Villas is a licensed management, real estate and villa rental company specializing in the rental of private villas and condos on both French and Dutch St. Maarten. Its proprietor, Jennifer, is a New Yorker who has been residing in St. Maarten for 40 years and whose goal is to provide guests with personal attention and to ensure that their vacations are memorable. Jennifer's Vacation Villas also does Weddings, Private Events, and any additional services including massages, boat trips, and private catering. Their aim is to make your vacation stay as comfortable, accommodating, and easy going as possible. Call 1 (721) 544-3107 | +1 (631) 546-7345. When you contact them, please tell them you were referred by Jeff Berger's Everything SXM Facebook Group.

Candie Billant does condo and villa rentals and sales. You will find her at #Caribbean Estate Agency N. V.

GoBeach Vacations

Sunshine Properties

Monte Verde / Belle Vue

Villa Acropole:
www.acropole-stmartin.com

Villa Vijoux:
https://www.facebook.com/VillaVijoux

Villa Steel Magnolias (new 1/22)

40Weeks SXM Vacation Rentals (new)

Villa En'sea 5 bedroom Villa, overlooking Philipsburg bay (new)

Villa Kimon

Daffodil Villa

13. Buying a Condo in SXM: Important Procedural Help

A while ago, working with Arun Jagtiani of Island Real Estate Team, we put together and conducted an SXM Relocation Seminar for dozens of attentive attendees at Emilio's Restaurant at the Emilio Wilson estate near Philipsburg.

Many of you have asked whether it would be possible for you to see video we made of our relocation seminar.

Although we do intend to put on future relocation seminars, the video of our November '18 seminar is available online to anyone interested in buying on SXM, whether for a vacation home, retirement home, income property, or anything else. Lots of outstanding info was communicated during this excellent seminar, and another is now in the early planning stages.

See the video here.

Please check this link to BrightPath Caribbean SXM, a company that can help provide very deep and expeditious help in completing residency requirements for people buying a second home, income property, or a new business in SXM, or relocating there. They're located in the Puerta del Sol building opposite Avantika, Simpson Bay, Dutch side. Tell them you heard about BrightPath through Jeff Berger's SXM Weekly News.

14. How To Rent Out Or Sell Your Timeshare Units

If you own timeshare weeks that you would like to rent out or sell on our main everythingSXM.com website, you can do it once you become a member of our JMB Website Supporters island discount program. For all the details, go to our main site, everythingSXM.com and click on timeshare rentals in the navigation bar. You'll find the details about posting there.

For information about joining JMB Website Supporters, click the page curl on all pages of everythingSXM.com. As a member, you will have access to a growing package of about 300 discounts and other benefits including the ability to post up to 10 ads per year in our rental pages at everythingsxm.com.

The ability to post timeshare rentals on our site is limited to JMB Website Supporters members only, and is not available to any others at any price.

15. SkyMed TRAVEL Guarantees Big-Time Savings on Hotels, Cruises, Car Rentals

We're now giving JMB Website Supporters members and SXM Weekly News readers access to a private, "members only" travel wholesale club that offers incredible prices not only on airfares but on travel reservations and packages worldwide.

SkyMed Travel offers exceptional pricing on everything and almost invariably beats everyone else's pricing. We have found their pricing excellent across the board and their 15% low rate guarantee on hotels and car rentals is real news.

Normally, SkyMed Travel charges $99 to join plus $99 annual renewals. But for our JMB Website Supporters members and now for Weekly News readers, the cost to join is zero as will be the cost for renewals. Join the Club by going to https://www.skymedtravel.com/register, sign up, and provide the requested information. Complete the first sign up item (SkyMed Membership Number or Representative ID) by entering the code 391330 �ߡ�doing that ensures that you pay nothing for your SkyMed Travel Club membership. No code, no free entry to the club's phenomenal pricing. If you are a SkyMed Member, however, enter your SkyMed Membership Number there to get the absolute greatest possible discounts.

You won't be disappointed.

Not a SkyMed member? Learn more about it at www.skymed.com/jmb, then call us with questions or to sign up. Call 508-591-3483 (NEW NUMBER) any weekday. Thanks.

SECTION 3: JMB Member Discounts & Benefits

16. Reminder: $100 Jewelry Gift Card Emails Sent to All JMB Website Supporters Members: News About JMB Member Discounts / Benefits Updates (Updated 1/31/22) How To Get Your $100 Gift Certificate to Caribbean Gems

One of the newest benefits of JMB Website Supporters membership is a $100 Gift Card from Caribbean Gems. The Gift Card was sent last month by email to all members of our JMB Website Supporters Island Discount Program, and will soon be added (for one-time use only) to our members-only passworded "Secret" Website. Details on its use accompany the card.

We are now working to further increase the already huge number of restaurants, jewelry stores, hotels, car rentals, and other businesses offering discounts or other incentives to members of our JMB Website Supporters SXM Island Discount Program. As these additions are made, they will be reported here in SXM Weekly News and will also be noted in our Everything SXM Facebook Group. We hope to finish these updates late during Summer, 2022.

JMB Website Supporters currently offers roughly 300 discounts and other benefits to its thousands of members.

Want your own $100 Gift Certificate to Caribbean Gems? Join JMB Website Supporters and we will send it to you. We recently sent Certificates to all JMB members.

For more info on what you get with your JMB membership or to sign up, go here.

17. Reminder: Members May Now Advertise Both Timeshare Weeks They Own and Privately Owned SXM Condominiums On Our Site

We are now accepting advertising for both timeshare resort condominiums as well as privately owned condominiums on the island directly from their owners who are members of our JMB Website Supporters Island Discount Program. This is effective immediately and includes weeks from both 2022 and 2023. Submit your ads through the members-only "Secret" website.

Not a member? Join us by clicking the page curl on our main site, www.everythingsxm.com. All the details you need are there.

18. JMB Website Supporters Island Discount Program Major Update Expected to Complete Late This Summer...

The huge update we have been working on for some time of our JMB Website Supporters Island Discount Program — which coincides with a major server upgrade and upgrades to two mission-critical programs for our new servers — is taking longer than we had originally hoped.. Unfortunately, this seems to be a common theme among many businesses dealing with personnel shortages among their principal contractors. In any case, we believe this major upgrade should be finished sometime late this summer. We will keep you aware of program changes and apologize for the delay.

19. Updated Contact Information for JMB Website Supporters and SkyMed Sales Inquiries (UPDATED 4/18/22)

Updated Contact Information for Everything SXM / JMB Communications / JMB Website Supporters Membership Services and SkyMed Sales:

Because of volume, email is not the best way to reach us. Here’s what’s best: First, a Suggestion: Get the free WhatsApp app. It lets you make free phone calls (including video calls) worldwide and send free texts, all for zero cost. It is very widely used around the world.

SkyMed Answers to Questions or to Sign Up by Phone: If you’re interested in learning more about SkyMed, contact Jeff Berger at jeff.berger@skymed.com. Leave your phone number and time zone and he’ll return your call. SkyMed is sold only to Americans, Canadians, and xPats. If you prefer, phone Jeff at 508-591-3483 and leave a message; that is a NEW NUMBER.
JMB Membership Questions/Issues -- JMB Website Supporters: Use WhatsApp to send questions to Membership Services; use Jeff Berger’s WhatsApp phone number, 721-588-4188, but call or TEXT (texting is
preferred) from within the WhatsApp application ONLY. Membership Services at our headquarters in Massachusetts handles all these calls. INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL, since all responses are made by email.
Our new email is jmbcomms@gmail.com; use it for JMB Website Supporters membership questions. Thank you.

SECTION 4: Island News, Info, & Features

20. TRAVELING "ANYWHERE" THIS SUMMER, FALL, or NEXT WINTER? Huge News from SkyMed:

Up To 22 Weeks FREE (PLUS Military/First Responder Free Weeks) with New Multiyear SkyMed Purchases ===Only $1.64/day Gets You Guaranteed Renewable, Price-Guaranteed-Forever SkyMed Annual or Multiyear Medevac Protection

.........................SKYMED's BEST PROMOTION EVER IS NOW UNDERWAY!.......................
For ALL NEW MEMBERSHIPS in 2022:

22 FREE weeks added to all new 5-year ULTIMATES*
12 FREE weeks added to all new 3-year ULTIMATES*
22 FREE days added to all new Annual memberships

"Thank YOU for Your Service"
Bonus for US & Canadian Military Veterans
& FIRST RESPONDERS:

6 FREE months added to all new 5-year ULTIMATES*
3 FREE months added to all new 3-year ULTIMATES*
*What are "Ultimates"? See next story.

***These MILITARY benefits are IN ADDITION TO the benefits for all new members!***

WHAT IS SKYMED? WHERE DOES SKYMED WORK?SkyMed is a medical evacuation membership company. "SkyMed Takes You Home®" when you become seriously or critically ill or injured when traveling anywhere throughout the USA, Canada, all the nations of the Caribbean, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Bahamas. Global protection is also available. SkyMed members pay nothing for SkyMed-arranged medical evacuation flights that would cost non-SkyMed members $45,000 and up payable in cash, in advance. Why risk that? Of course, you must get your SkyMed membership before you need it -- just like fire insurance. You'll find an overview of all SkyMed Services here, and you'll find Frequently Asked Questions here.
WHAT ARE "ULTIMATES"?SkyMed Ultimates are SkyMed's best memberships and also its LEAST EXPENSIVE on a cost-per-day basis (about $1.64/day for family protection). They offer a suite of 18 services and protect you worldwide -- almost everywhere. They are offered in monthly-pay (minimum payment period two years), three-year, and five-year versions.
LOW GROUP PRICING *LOWER THAN THE PRICES ON THE SKYMED WEBSITE*:

All of the SkyMed memberships we sell go to either members of our JMB Website Supporters Island Discount Program, to members of our various online SXM groups, or to readers of SXM Weekly News. The prices we charge for all multiyear Ultimate memberships are SUBSTANTIALLY LESS than the retail prices you will see online from SkyMed's website. Call or email us DIRECTLY (contact info below) for details on all of our major-league savings on SkyMed Ultimate multi-year membership prices.

LIFETIME PRICE GUARANTEE / GUARANTEED RENEWABLE MEMBERSHIPS:All existing SkyMed memberships and new SkyMed membership purchases of one-year or longer are now price-guaranteed for life. The price of your membership will not increase if you buy during 2022 or if you already are a SkyMed owner of any annual or longer membership: this applies as long as your renewals are paid on time. SkyMed annual and longer memberships are also Guaranteed Renewable when annual or multiyear fees are paid on time -- guaranteed renewable regardless of advancing age or declining health.
HOW TO CONTACT US: Phone us ANYTIME at 508-591-3483 (new number, where you can also text us) for answers to questions or to sign up. When you call us directly, we get credit for the sale. You can also email us directly through SkyMed at jeff.berger@skymed.com.
My SkyMed website: http://www.skymed.com/jmb. But please CALL ME DIRECTLY with questions or to sign up - that way I get credit..
.
When and Where SkyMed Protects You:Basic SkyMed short-term and annual memberships protect you throughout the USA, Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, the Bahamas, and all the nations of the Caribbean. In that SkyMed universe, SkyMed Takes You Home® when you become critically ill or injured. Optional protection covering most of the rest of the world is provided by GETS, Global Emergency Travel Services, a SkyMed company.
Key Differences Between SkyMed Short-Term & Annual Memberships: Many people who buy SkyMed memberships first request short-term protection. Is that the best solution for most people? That's a decision you have to make, but before you do, here's some important info. First, short-term memberships are available only for a specific defined short term. They protect you with SkyMed Takes You Home® membership that applies throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, the Bahamas, and all the nations of the Caribbean including Cuba. Short-term protection cannot be upgraded or renewed since you buy it for a specific trip; it's temporary protection. There is no waiting period for benefits. When you want protection for another future trip, you must make a separate application for it. Short-term protection is economical if you seldom travel and if you take brief trips. The cost is $9/day per person, or a maximum of $15 a day per family (parents and kids 21 or younger). We always tell people who are 50 or over about the most important advantages of SkyMed annual and multiyear memberships. The single most important benefit is that SkyMed annual and multiyear memberships are guaranteed renewable, regardless of advancing age or declining health. Details are in SkyMed's Member Services Agreement. We currently have members who are still traveling and are in their upper 80s and 90s. The cost of annual memberships per family is far more economical than the $15/day per family for short-term coverage -- it's now only about $1.64/day total. Multiyear memberships are also about $1.64/day and have more features; contact me for full information about features of each type of SkyMed membership. Ultimate memberships protect you worldwide. I can answer all your questions by phone in minutes, and can also take your application by phone (that way I get credit). Phone anytime at 508-591-3483 (NEW NUMBER). That's a direct line to Jeff Berger. Updated 5/2/22.

*What is the SkyMed Ultimate?
Again, the Ultimate is SkyMed's best - and least expensive (on a daily cost basis) form of medical evacuation membership. With SkyMed "Takes You Home"® services in the USA, Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, the Bahamas, and all the nations of the Caribbean, plus Global Emergency Travel Services (GETS) almost everywhere else worldwide, the Ultimate is for people who visit Europe, Africa, Asia, and almost anywhere else your wanderlust takes you. It also delivers 18 critically important travel-related services as opposed to 12 with SkyMed annual memberships. You'll find an overview of all SkyMed Services including those provided with Ultimate memberships here.
SkyMed Frequently Asked Questions / FAQ

Feel free to contact me via Facebook Messenger as well or now WhatsApp, 721-588-4188 (through WhatsApp ONLY), or use our new office line, 508-591-3483. Or email me at jeff.berger@skymed.com (SkyMed inquiries only please). You can also send texts to that 508 line and leave voice messages. Please include your phone number, time zone, callback number, and email address.

--Jeff Berger
5/16/22

22. Answering Your Questions: What Does SkyMed Really Do?
---An Important Message from Jeff Berger to All SXM Weekly News Readers---

We've always said SkyMed TAKES YOU HOME® when you become critically ill or injured --
home to doctors and hospitals you know and trust, and home where your health insurance works. In
recent weeks as many of you have decided to resume traveling, you've asked us for examples of
what SkyMed does. Several examples are right here:

For answers to questions or to sign up, email me at jeff.berger@skymed.com or call me at
508-591-3483. Open to Americans & Canadians & xPats only. Based in Scottsdale, Arizona,
for the last 33+ years, SkyMed TAKES YOU HOME® when you become critically ill or injured
while traveling anywhere in the USA, Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, the Bahamas, or all the
nations of the Caribbean. Global protection is available. Cost for family membership is as
little as $1.64/day on annual and multiyear plans. IMPORTANT: Buy directly through me;
our pricing for multiyear memberships is much lower than SkyMed's pricing published
on the web.

Here are specific examples of how SkyMed works for its members:

On a recent Thursday at Mullet Bay Beach, a woman at the edge of the water fell and accidentally
knocked down her friend, standing close by. The friend felt pain in her leg as she got up, went to
a hospital, and was told she had a "soft tissue injury" and should relax in the sun. Pain
continued. Next day she went to the Maho Clinic for another opinion since she couldn't put any
weight on the leg without pain. The doctor there sent her to the French Side for a new x-ray. That
diagnosis came back - broken leg and she had to be medically evacuated back to the US for surgery.
A few days before, the woman had bought short-term SkyMed medevac protection for her short trip to
SXM. Cost, under $100. She was sent home by jet by SkyMed. The charge for the jet: $0. Without
SkyMed, had she needed a medevac jet, the $26,000 (approx.) price of that jet home would have had
to be paid in cash in advance; with SkyMed she was home and in the hospital of her choice the next
day for $0 out-of-pocket.

Mary Beth and her partner Don were vacationing in SXM when Don fell and broke his hip -- only about
a month after they had bought SkyMed. SkyMed flew them home on a medevac jet for the hospital care
he needed. Flight cost to the patient: $0. Savings: over $35,000.

An MD from Florida who always visits SXM was on a cruise vacation to the Greek Islands with his
wife when he broke his femur aboard the ship. He was rushed to the hospital in Corfu but called
SkyMed which arranged and paid for an emergency medevac flight to Athens for urgent surgery. A few
days later SkyMed evacuated him again, with an excellent male nurse, all the way home to Florida,
where an ambulance took him home for recovery. Required flight cost to the patient: $0. Savings:
huge.

A Summer trip ended in disaster when a child visiting her grandmother in Grand Case was bitten in
the head by the grandmother's bulldog, imperiling the girl's eyesight. She was flown to Miami in a medical
evacuation jet for emergency eye surgery that saved her sight. Flight cost to the patient: $0.

A woman from Virginia shopped at an island grocer and headed back to her car carrying two bags of
groceries. She tripped and fell on a curb and knew at once she had fractured her hip. After being
stabilized locally, she was flown home on a medical evacuation jet from SkyMed where she had the
surgery she needed. Flight cost to the patient: $0.

Two men were riding their horses on a hill in Cay Bay when a car backfiring spooked one of the
horses, which threw its rider. The other rider got off his horse to check his companion when the car again
backfired, spooking the horse again which led it to kick its dismounted driver in the head, luckily
causing "only" a severely dislocated jaw. The local hospital had no ability to solve that problem
so the victim was airlifted by SkyMed back to Pennsylvania for surgery. Flight cost to the patient:
$0.

A member of the clergy fell down cement stairs and broke her leg. She too was airlifted home by
SkyMed for surgery. Flight cost to the patient: $0.

Not all trips end well: anything can happen when you travel. Being a member of SkyMed was the common thread in all these cases. SkyMed takes its members home when serious or critical injuries occur in the "SkyMed universe" , usually in a private, ICU-equivalent medical evacuation jet -- home to doctors and hospitals the patient knows and trusts -- and home where their health insurance works. That's just one of up to 18 benefits received by SkyMed members for about $1.64/day for annual or multiyear memberships.

All this is why we always recommend SkyMed. Call Jeff Berger 24/7 at 508-591-3483 and leave
your name, phone number, and time zone. Jeff will call back at a mutually convenient time and
answer all your questions. He can also take your application by phone in about 10 minutes. You're eligible to
apply regardless of your age or health if you are a U.S. or Canadian citizen or an American or
Canadian ExPat living in SXM or certain other countries.

Anything can happen anywhere: Do it now, BEFORE YOU NEED IT. To learn more, visit
www.skymed.com/jmb. JMB members get big discounts off SkyMed's online pricing for all multiyear memberships, the BEST memberships for most people age 50 or over. More contact info is above.

Thanks for reading this.

23. Holy Croissant! US Dollar Now Worth More than the Euro?

For years, the US dollar has been worth less than the euro, increasing the cost of French side purchases for people using US dollars. At its best, paying in dollars meant you had to spend USD$1.15 in US currency to get one euros value.. At its worst, it took nearly $1.50 to equal the value of one euro a number of years ago.

That has all changed in recent weeks because of what has been described as the red-hot US economy and the very strong dollar. As of very early Tuesday, just before this issue started mailing, the dollar was getting stronger and is almost at par with the Euro.

We have no idea how long this will last, but this Washington Post article will be of interest.

24. Second Minor Quake in a Week Opens Eyeballs in Gustavia, St. Barth

The second minor earthquake in the last couple of weeks shook some people in the northeastern Caribbean this past week. The prior quake was centered near Guana Bay, an upscale residential area just northeast of Philipsburg. This week's quake was centered in Gustavia, the capital of St. Barth, southeast of SXM. We did not receive any reports of damage or injury there, but the quake awoke some people in SXM. Some said they were a bit reluctant to return to sleep after facing two minor quakes in such a short period.

There were no immediate reports of damage or injury in SXM from this latest minor quake and some people simply slept through it.

25. Travel Plans to SXM INCREASING As US Gas Prices Peak

Americans are paying through the nose for gasoline these days. The hot US economy and the inflation that has come with it were spurred primarily by record high oil prices caused by Putin's invasion of Ukraine. Some people have thought that high gas prices could have a negative impact on travel, but the opposite seems to be true in SXM. There, some resorts are reporting that people are calling to make new reservations and lock in current low prices since back home, prices for everything are inflated.

Business in SXM usually slows during summer, but restaurants are reporting their business remains brisk and that the outlook for summer and fall business seems to be the best in years.

26. Philipsburg Marketplace Being Re-imagined & Rebuilt with Royal Caribbean's Sponsorship

From the government of St. Maarten. This regards the local craft sales people in the block behind the historic courthouse in Philipsburg:

The Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation & Telecommunications (TEATT) announced that the Royal Caribbean Group has agreed to reconstruct the Philipsburg Marketplace at the cost of Naf.600k.

The agreement was made possible during the past months through dialogue by the honourable minister of TEATT Roger Lawrence, stemming from the discussions and walk-through that was done on February 2nd with Port St. Maarten and Royal Caribbean Group officials.

The ministry sought out creative alternatives and the collaboration with the PSG and Royal Caribbean Group to get the project completed. He explained that it became necessary to find creative alternatives for completing the project after available funds were reallocated to complete road repairs throughout the island as a result of the 2022 budget debate at the end of January.

“Philipsburg is one of Royal Caribbean Group’s premier destinations in the region and we are excited to participate in rebuilding and reinvigorating the iconic Philipsburg Marketplace to support the artisans and the community of St. Maarten,” said Joshua Carroll, VP Destination Development for Royal Caribbean Group. The Philipsburg Marketplace has served tourists for many years as a central location to purchase souvenirs from their visits to the island. It sustained significant structural damage during the passing of Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017.

Critical to the reconstruction of the Marketplace is ensuring that it is built strong enough for protection from the weather conditions and elements. In the new design, vendors will be able to store their goods safely within the stall instead of having to remove all items on display daily. The new and improved Marketplace will be wheelchair accessible and will feature designated parking for the offloading of goods by vendors.

The Ministry of TEATT has also ensured that the new design considers the safety of vendors and patrons and says the facility will be equipped with fire extinguishers and surveillance cameras. Within the minister’s assessment of the opportunities of the project to Royal Caribbean Group, Lawrence particularly outlined that the marketplace is strategically located in the heart of the island's capital for easy access by cruise guests, serving as a tourist attraction that offers visitors a piece of culture and memorabilia, they can take with them on their return home.

The Ministry of TEATT is excited that Royal Caribbean Group has chosen St. Maarten as one of the destinations that will benefit from the cruise company’s generosity and goodwill. With St. Maarten ranking high among the top ten destinations that Royal Caribbean Group visits each year, it makes sense to build partnerships that add value to the destination. Royal Caribbean Group's contributions to our island's sustainable redevelopment and continued partnership will also enhance their guest experience when they visit our island and win us significantly more return visits According to the minister the Public-Private collaboration between the Government of St. Maarten and Royal Caribbean Group will go a long way in restoring activity in Philipsburg. The revitalization of Philipsburg remains a major goal in restoring the island’s economic activity to pre-hurricane Irma and Maria of 2017.

27. Some Restaurateurs Starting to Plan Annual Closings (September)

A number of SXM Restaurants close annually in September, traditionally the month with the most tropical cyclone activity in the Caribbean and the lowest number of SXM tourists thanks to people returning from summer vacations and kids heading back to school.

In our Everything SXM Facebook Group, we do our best to gather this information from SXM restaurateurs and organize it chronologically so tourists don't waste time trying to make reservations at restaurants that are temporarily shut down. If you plan to be in SXM this summer or fall, we strongly suggest you join our Everything SXM Facebook Group (it's free) and look in the Files area for Annual Closings, especially as the calendar takes us closer to summer. That is where this information will be.

If you are a restaurateur, please send a direct message to any Admin on that site and ask that we include your restaurant information with specific dates in our annual closing listings. If your restaurant does not close, please tell us that as well.

28. What Summer Weather Is Like in SXM

As we hinted above in our weather section, summer in SXM is far more inviting than many places you perhaps usually visit during the summer back in the USA.

For starters, many places across the USA are sweltering in summer with temperatures well into the 90s, oppressive humidity, and unbearable traffic to key vacation areas not to mention high prices for everything and crowds everywhere. Meanwhile, SXM has lighter crowds than in winter, so traffic is easy. Beaches are not heavily populated. Prices are reasonable. Although temperatures can be high, they won't be as high as they are in the US and humidity will be lower. Restaurants are also open for business with normal prices. Shopping for cameras with US guarantees, jewelry for yourself or your loved ones, and other goods is easy and without the crowds.

If you haven't yet planned your summer vacation, make it in SXM. You should save yourself significant cash you would otherwise spend near home — and you'll have a much more relaxing experience.

29. Megayachts Moving Out for the Summer

Megayachts traditionally start sailing into SXM in mid-November and start leaving the island during May, before hurricane season officially begins so they don't lose insurance coverage if they stay in areas prone to hurricanes during hurricane season.

In case you're wondering where they're going, a number go to the Mediterranean and stay there for the busy summer season. We would expect, however, that don't those numbers might be slightly less this year especially in the Eastern Mediterranean because of Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine and the flight of oligarch-owned superyachts to avoid being seized by nations helping Ukraine.

30. The Bizarre Story of a Seized Superyacht

Early in March, some super yachts owned by Russian oligarchs had been in Caribbean waters. But when it became obvious that Western countries were contemplating seizing Russian assets including those yachts, they left in a hurry.

In fact, late in the week of the Heineken Regatta, as Regatta boats were headed out of Simpson Bay lagoon for the day's sailing, we witnessed a huge launch from Roman Abramovich's Eclipse supermegayacht come to the dock next to the police station in Simpson Bay, drop off several very long cardboard boxes, which its crewmembers carried away, then leave, despite the obvious consternation of the Coast Guard. The boat itself left in darkness only hours later and is either now in Turkish waters or in the Indian Ocean, depending on which story you believe.

This is one story – one rather bizarre story — about a seized superyacht: very absorbing reading.

31. Is a Superyacht Worth USD$4.8Billion (with a "B")
Many of the largest superyachts on planet Earth eventually visit SXM. Readers who are interested in superyachts that visit here may be particularly interested in this story about a superyacht reportedly worth US$4.8 billion, definitely a tidy sum. Here it is.

32. A Gift You May Not Have Thought About for for College-Bound Kids, Grandkids

If you have children or grandchildren who will be away at college this coming school year, protect them by applying for inexpensive guaranteed renewable, price guaranteed for life annual SkyMed medical evacuation protection. It will take them home when they become seriously or critically ill or injured while at school or elsewhere (USA, Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, the Bahamas, and the Caribbean), and the membership price and never increase because of that price guarantee. Questions? Call us at 508-591-3483 or email Jeff directly at Jeff.Berger@skymed.com. He will be happy to answer all your questions and can even take your application by phone, the fastest way to apply -- that we he also gets credit.

33. Critical Reminder: SXM Is Paradise, Not Utopia

Please remember what long-time SXM resident Kathy Hetzel told us many years ago: SXM is paradise, not Utopia.

In Utopia you can leave valuables, cash, and credit cards in the trunk of your car, in your condo or villa, and even on the beach when you take a long walk. That's Utopia — not SXM.

Never do any of these things in SXM. And if you rent a villa, as many people do, don't leave windows or sliders unlocked when you're either away from the villa or nearby at the pool. Prying eyes may want whatever you left there. Again: SXM is paradise, not Utopia — and thinking the two are the same can be quite costly.

34. Our Six-Vacation Giveaway is Still Slated for June; How to Enter & What You Can Win

EverythingSXM.com will be celebrating 10 million visits to its suite of SXM websites by giving away SIX SXM vacations this Summer.

Want one?

The vacations will be at:

Villa En Sea high on a hill overlooking beautiful Great Bay and downtown Philipsburg;

Colony Manor Golden Daze condo directly on Simpson Bay beach;

Simpson Bay Resort, Marina, & Spa in the heart of Simpson Bay, on its own private beach;

Belair Beach Hotel on its own private beach minutes from Philipsburg;

Divi Little Bay Beach Resort, on its own private beach with a gorgeous multi-level pool and lots of great restaurants on-site; and

Azure Hotel & Art Studio, a small family-owned hotel on the beach and within walking distance of many fine Simpson Bay restaurants.

In addition, there will be a car rental from Leisure Car Rental for the grand prize winner, several dinners for two at top island restaurants (see below), and a $400 women's or men's watch from Caribbean Gems in Philipsburg.

Dinners for two will be at Mario's Bistro; Emilio's Restaurant; Isola Restaurant; Vesna Taverna; Mama Pizza; Movida; IZI Ristorante Italiano and Spiga in Grand Case. All are subject to limitations set by the owner; if you exceed the limit, you are responsible for the excess.

Our GRAND PRIZE winner will also appear live on Island 92 radio with Jeff "Dr. Soc" Sochrin on his Fresh Air in the Morning Program.

ENTRIES ARE NOW OPEN AND IF YOU RECEIVE YOUR OWN COPY OF SXM WEEKLY NEWS, YOU ARE ELIGIBLE TO WIN BUT YOU STILL MUST ENTER. ENTER HERE. If you do NOT subscribe, you must go to sxmweeklynews.com now to subscribe FREE before entering this giveaway. ENTRIES FROM NONSUBSCRIBERS ARE NOT ELIGIBLE TO WIN. PREVIOUS WINNERS ARE NOT ELIGIBLE.

35. Two New SXM Euro Oval Stickers Now Available; Where to See Them & How to Order

As many readers are aware, we have SXM euro oval stickers available for sale to our readers for very reasonable prices. There are currently two versions available: our traditional green SXM Euro ovals with a large SXM overlaying a recently modified image of coconut palms in the background, and a purple sand chair SXM euro oval which features the SXM letters in large purple type with a purple sand chair in the background. Both of these are now available for ordering.

They are great for cars, smooth-sided luggage, mirrors in your home, and LOTS of other places. These are copyrighted by us and available ONLY from us by mail. (Sorry, no magnets but we ARE working on luggage tags...) Available for mailing only to USA, Canadian, and APO/FPO Addresses. Pricing: 1 for $10, but THREE for $20 including shipping; multiple orders of three accepted (order a total of 6 or more ovals and we'll send a surprise in the package). Unless you direct otherwise, We will send you our green coconut palms SXM euro oval to fulfill your order. If you'd like to have both the purple sand chair SXM euro oval and the new green coconut palm tree SXM euro oval, tell us how many of each you want when ordering.

To see pictures of both Euro ovals, please visit our Everything SXM Facebook Group and search for "coconut" or for "purple sand chair" -- remember that prices are as indicated in the preceding paragraph when ordering.

HOW TO ORDER: Please use PayPal and submit payment to jeff@jmbcommunications.com. NOW BEING SHIPPED. Allow 3 weeks for delivery but they will likely arrive much sooner. Printed on vinyl and varnished for long life. Questions? TEXT US at 508-591-3483 or email us ONLY AT jmbcomms@gmail.com please. IF YOU DON'T USE PAYPAL send a US DOLLAR check payable to JMB Communications to JMB, P. O. Box 1812, Plymouth, MA 02362-1812. Include # of ovals you are ordering and your phone, email, and delivery address.

36. How You Can Help Us Continue to Avoid a 2022 JMB Website Supporters Island Discount Program Price Increase...

We depend on your support to enable us to publish SXM Weekly News every week. We also depend on your support to fund the work we do to publish news in our weather center and in our Everything SXM Facebook Group concerning tropical weather approaching SXM for the US mainland. Your support also makes possible the winter parties we hope to resume next winter for our JMB Website Supporters members plus all the benefits of our JMB website Supporters Island Discount Program.

Earlier this year, we announced that we were going to increase prices — since the price increase was long overdue and held off because of Covid. We never did that price increase, wanting to hold the line for our members and we still want to hold the line. But Russia invaded Ukraine and crude oil prices have shot through the roof, as we all know, and the costs of everything have gone crazy. At this point, we still don't want to raise prices but we need your help now to be able to hold the line on our current pricing for membership in our JMB Website Supporters Island Discount Program. Please join or renew now, here. We will be grateful for your support as we begin our 31st year communicating about SXM to hundreds of thousands of readers around the world.

This is important: we have been working on and continue to work on a significant upgrade of our JMB Website Supporters Island Discount Program. We are hoping the upgrade will be finished by the end of this summer, and we are depending on our partners and our sponsors to offer new discounts to all our JMB Website Supporters Island Discount Program members. If you are our Sponsor of JMB, please contact us at jmbcomms@Gmail.com or text us through WhatsApp at 721-588-4188 so we can get things started for you.

Regardless of whether you are already a member of JMB Website Supporters, you can join or renew your membership and get hundreds of benefits through us now, here. We are grateful for your support, as always. You make all this possible!

37. What Are the Best Sources of Accommodations Rentals?

We offer hundreds of timeshare condominium rentals directly from timeshare owners in the listings on our main site, www.everythingSXM.com. There, you're not buying from strangers — you're buying from other people who love St. Maarten as much as you do. We've been doing this since 1992 and we know that it's the way thousands of people have rented weeks successfully over the last 30 years. Give it a try. More information about Condominiums is in Section 2, above.

38. Enormous Library of SXM Information is On The Web

Regardless of what kind of SXM information you need, our sites deliver it.

Here are three examples:

a) our SXM Weekly News PDF archives include every edition of SXM Weekly News since 2014 – now approaching 9 years of editions and hundreds of thousands of words of SXM information. Our PDF archives are searchable by keywords to make it easy for you to find whatever information you seek quickly and easily on your computer. (A link to the Archives is in every edition of SXM Weekly News.)

b) our Everything SXM Facebook Group is a repository for an enormous amount of SXM information posted during it's more than 10 years of existence. You can search all posts ever allowed, for any SXM topic — and you will find hundreds of posts on virtually any specific topic. If you don't find what you're looking for, you can always post a question on that site that will tap the brains of nearly 33,000 members — not counting their friends and spouses. The vast majority of our members are tourists who have spent years visiting SXM and who have a wealth of information available.

c) we have a Files area in our Everything SXM Facebook Group with another enormous reservoir/library of island information. Our files are also searchable directly from our everything SXM Facebook group. They are also frequently updated by our admins and moderators, particularly Contessa Aiello who has written most of them.

Take advantage of these resources — and don't forget to thank those who have made them possible.

39. Flying This Summer? Here's Something Else You Should Know

If you are traveling anywhere this summer, there is a way you can inject tremendous peace of mind into your travels…

For the first three months of any new SkyMed annual or multiyear membership, SkyMed excludes coverage of pre-existing conditions; after three months, those conditions are covered in full. So...to AVOID ANY IMPACT on your travel plans this Summer or Fall, buy your new SkyMed annual or multiyear membership NOW, at least three months ahead of your planned Summer/Fall travel -- then the 90-day exclusion period for preexisting conditions will end before you travel...

Why get annual or multiyear memberships? SHORT-TERM family memberships (for a week or two) are $15/day, while guaranteed renewable for life, price guaranteed for life annual and multiyear memberships are only about $1.64/day -- less than a decent cup of coffee. Call me at 508-591-3483 or jeff.berger@skymed.com for answers to questions or to sign up by phone.

Available exclusively to Americans and Canadians. SkyMed TAKES YOU HOME(R) when you become seriously ill or injured while traveling in the USA, Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, the Bahamas, and all the nations of the Caribbean. Global protection is also available through GETS, Global Emergency Travel Services, part of the SkyMed group.

40. Restaurant of the Week: Returns Next Week

Setting / Location:
Offerings:
Summary:

Here are recently featured SXM restaurants:
Jai's Contemporary Fusion Cuisine (featured 5/9/22), Simpson Bay Leave your preconceptions behind! A 15-second walk to the opposite side of the building from Top Carrot. Outstanding dinners (and lunches a few days weekly) in Jai's, a fun new contemporary fusion restaurant operated by two young SXM graduates of the Culinary Institute of America (CIA). Super creative, artfully presented, phenomenally executed selections spanning an ever-growing spectrum of flavors, aromas, textures, and tastes. You gotta try Jai's! Highest recommendation. See https://www.facebook.com/jaissxmresto
Astra Steak & Seafood (featured 5/2/22) is the newest creation of the organization that also operates Avantika and Movida in the same area of Simpson Bay. It's relatively new, beautiful, constantly evolving, and has high-quality written all over it. We go often and love it. See https://www.astrasxm.com/
Melange International Grill, Port de Plaisance (next to Princess Casino entrance). (featured 4/18/22) A spectrum of delightful offerings from Europe, the USA, and South America. One of the most eclectic menus on SXM. Delicious dining.
Mama Pizza, Porto Cupecoy & Oyster Pond, (featured 4/4/22) Big, outstanding pizza, and sizable portions plus reasonable prices on numerous other delicious Italian specialties. They also have a number of fresh fish entrees you should not miss. On the plaza at Porto Cupecoy, Cupecoy Beach, and on the main drag through Oyster Pond, French side. https://www.facebook.com/Mamapizzaisthebest
Mandarin Pan Asian at Port de Plaisance Resort off the Union Road, Cole Bay, (featured 3/21/22). Excellent selection of palate-pleasing offerings from Japan, Thailand, and China. Highly recommended.
IZI Ristorante Italiano, www.izirestaurant.com (featured 3/14/22). Open for dinner starting at 5pm except Mon., when they're closed. Fantastic food from one of SXM's very best restaurants. Fun atmosphere, too.
Isola next to Hollywood Casino at Simpson Bay Resort, (featured 3/7/22). Italian. Excellent food, many choices (pizza too), busy, good specials. Lively; busy; entertainment some nights. Many folks from Simpson Bay Resort dine here as well as many locals and lots of casino high-rollers. www.isolaristorante.com
La Patrona, Simpson Bay Resort (featured 2/28/22) La Patrona is SXM's only truly authentic Mexican restaurant. Highly recommended: great food, great service, not to be missed.
Bovin Steakhouse at Simpson Bay Resort, Marina Plaza next to la Patrona (featured 2/21/22) Upscale restaurant offering sumptuous dining, outstanding service, and more than just steak (though we expect lots of steak lovers will flock here.
Avantika Thai www.avantikasxm.com (featured 2/14/22) Avantika is flat-out wonderful; SXM's best 4hai Delicious food artfully presented and reasonably priced, backed by seasoned service. Go...you'll become a regular.
Spiga, www.spiga-sxm.com (featured 2/7/22) Chef-co-owner Ciro Russo & Lara Russo haven't missed a beat here as Spiga continues to be simply the best restaurant of any kind in Grand Case, where it has a lot of competition. Incredibly irresistible food, great staff, service, and beautiful ambiance. Everything is great, appetizers are out of this world. Absolutely not to be missed.
SkipJacks Seafood Grill, Bar, and seafood Market (featured 1/31/22 is one of the largest seafood restaurants on the island, located in a remarkable site overlooking Simpson Bay Lagoon and many megayachts. With many types of fresh fish cooked to order, SkipJack's is best known for lobster, both the local spiny variety and even some flown in from Maine. Pick your own and have it prepared as you like it. Lots of other choices too for all kinds of appetites. Classic attentive service and delicious everything. It's a must.
Emilio's at the Emilio Wilson Estate, Dutch Side, https://emilios-sxm.com/ . [Featured January 2022] Truly fine dining in one of SXM's most well known and respected restaurants. The property is rich in history, the owners and Chef Sidney are culinary perfectionists, and you will kick yourself if you don't go here early in your trip so you have time to come back. Sunday Brunch is a must but requires reservations as does dinner. Not to be missed.
Mario's Bistro at the Cliff, formerly Mario's Bistro www.mariobistrot.com/en/ 1/17/22 Mario's is one of the most spectacular culinary experiences you'll ever have -- here in SXM or anywhere else. Go. Phenomenal dining. Formerly on the plaza at Porto Cupecoy, Cupecoy Beach, they are now at the Cliff. Open every day but Monday, they serve both lunch and dinner six days a week. Traditional and highly creative Continental dinners, with Tapas and other selections at lunch. Do not miss it. Reservations essential. They do not use an answering machine, so call when they are open and let it ring.
The Coffee Lounge, (featured 1/3/22) Simpson Bay next to Domino's and in Philipsburg at the head of town. Great freshly roasted coffees, pastries, and sandwiches. Don't miss it.
Vesna Taverna, www.vesnasxm.com (featured 12/27/21). Now open every day for B/L; dinner is offered Tuesday through Saturday. Outstanding dining and very reasonable pricing.
Pineapple Pete, www.pineapplepete.com (featured 12/20/21) Known for great lobster Thermidor and lots, lots more. Generous portions, reasonable prices. Huge variety. Games for kids & their parents.
Wasabi Charlie Japanese Restaurant (12/20/21) now combined with Pineapple Pete at the Pineapple Pete location, opposite IZI Ristorante Italiano in Simpson Bay. GREAT sushi rolls and sashimi and much more.
Topper's http://www.sxmtoppers.com/ (featured 10/11/21) One of SXM's oldest and busiest restaurants, now in a beautiful new over-water setting at the Carousel building on Simpson Bay lagoon. Lunch, dinner, and late dining. Karaoke. Co-located with Toppers Rhum Distillery so have some rum (rhum is the French spelling) and rhum cake when you dine. Open until late night. Sports on TV. From cops to billionaires, everyone loves Toppers.
La Rosa Restaurant, Maho Plaza, 9/7/2021: Loved the relaxing vibe, attentive service, GREAT food, reasonable prices, and BIG portions. www.larosarestaurant.com/index.html
Blue Bitch Bar www.bluebitchbar.com, formerly Taloula Mango's Blue Bitch Bar, is THE bar/restaurant to visit on the Boardwalk in Philipsbuirg. (featured 8/9/21) Great open-air atmosphere, outdoor dining/drinking, entertainment. Their menu is extensive with excellent food, fun atmosphere, and beautiful ocean views. Located on the beach, at the Boardwalk....
Pure Ocean Restaurant at Divi Little Bay Resort, Dutch side (featured 3/1/21) Fine new beachside restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and fine dining dinners. Excellent choices for everyone, innovative menu, beautiful presentation, and downright delicious. Great #Caribbean ambiance on their open-air beachside deck. Attentive service and responsive staff.
Freedom Fighters ITAL SHACK Rasta Restaurant, www.sxmfreedomfighters.com/restaurant 4/15/19. Just go....
Dany's Smooth Cupecoy Beach Bar (on Cupecoy beach); follow the road toward Shore Pointe and turn near Shore Pointe to get there. (Featured 1/20/2019) Parking, drinks, chairs and umbrellas, lolo-type food, and an all-over tan. What could possibly be better?
Enigma C3 luxury Catamaran, www.sailstmaarten.com (featured 8/7/17). Neil's new boat is as big as Celine Too was and it has now entered service. Neil is known for amazing cooking on board his boats.

You will find hundreds more restaurants from both the Dutch Side and French Side listed in the Files area of our Everything St. Maarten / St. Martin / SXM Facebook Group. Our thanks to our Admin there, Contessa Aiello, who edited the restaurant entries on that site.

41. Getting Answers to All Your Questions About SXM

Regardless of what questions you have about SXM, you can find the answers to any questions either in the files area of our Everything SXM Facebook Group (where we post our current Guide to Entry Requirements) that answers many questions) or you can simply post a question on our site.

We have over 32,000 members, more than other active SXM Facebook sites combined. Our site is also a unique news and information portal, not typical social media where people post pictures of smiling cats, monkeys standing on their heads, and other pointless items. Our SXM site is strictly SXM focused with no drivel. Join it today at www.facebook.com/groups/mySXM.

42. Important Updated Contact Information for Everything SXM / JMB Communications / JMB Website Supporters Membership Services and SkyMed Sales (UPDATED):
Because of volume, email is not the best way to reach us. Here’s what’s best: First, a Suggestion: Get the free WhatsApp app. It lets you make free phone calls (including video calls) worldwide and send free texts, all for zero cost. It is very widely used around the world.

SkyMed Answers to Questions or to Sign Up by Phone: If you’re interested in learning more about SkyMed, contact Jeff Berger at jeff.berger@skymed.com. Leave your phone number and time zone and he’ll return your call. SkyMed is sold only to Americans, Canadians, and xPats. If you prefer, phone Jeff at 508-591-3483 and leave a message; that is a NEW NUMBER.
JMB Membership Questions/Issues -- JMB Website Supporters: Use WhatsApp to send questions to Membership Services; use Jeff Berger’s WhatsApp phone number, 721-588-4188, but call or TEXT (texting is
preferred) from within the WhatsApp application ONLY. Membership Services at our headquarters in Massachusetts handles all these calls. INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL, since all responses are made by email.
Our new email is jmbcomms@gmail.com; use it for JMB Website Supporters membership questions. Thank you.

43. Who Our Sponsors Are, & Why You Should Patronize Them (Updated 5/16/22)

Our JMB SXM Web Media Sponsors help make it possible for us to research, write, produce, and email you SXM Weekly News every week. They also enable us to spend lots of hours making sure our Everything SXM Facebook Group fulfills its mission to be SXM's only authentically managed [by a seasoned journalist] interactive conversational SXM news and information portal on Facebook. And their help makes our JMB Website Supporters members-only Island Parties possible (resuming next year) as well as all the working going into enhancing our Island Discount Program now for its thousands of loyal members. Thank You for patronizing our Sponsors! (JMB Communications is based in Massachusetts, USA).

AMUSEMENTS

Island Pedals Beer Cycle (Philipsburg)

ARTISTS

Roland Richardson
Patty Meotti
Laura Fisher Saxon

AUTHORS/NOVELISTS

Russell Clark

Jacky Rom

BOAT TOURS / BOAT CHARTERS

Celine Charters (Enigma)

Luxury Private Catamaran Charters:
www.sxmstmartincatamarancharters.net

Rumbelly Boat Charters Pleasure boats, motorized and catamaran (new)

BOUTIQUES

En Vogue, Billy Folly Road opposite Atrium Resort

BREWERIES & DISTILLERIES

SXM Beer Brewery

Toppers Rhum & Vodka Distillery

Caribbean Brewing

CAR RENTALS:

Leisure Car Rental

Sax Car Rental

Exclusive Car Rental

Tropicana Car Rental

Dollar/Thrifty Car Rental

SixT Car Rental

CHILD CARE & MORE FOR VISITORS

Alisha Brookes

COFFEE / PASTRY & MORE (NEW):

Coffee Lounge & More: Head of town in Philipsburg and Simpson Bay near Domino's

COVID TESTING:

Medcare (near Avantika in Puerto del Sol)

Test-to-Fly (new 1/22)

CUBAN CIGARS:

Cigar Mack

SXM Cigars

DOLLAR STORES

All in One Place (Near Carrefour and now in Simpson Bay near Domino's)

DUTY-FREE SHOPPING (NEW)

Great Deals on Watches, Bags, Wallets, Sunglasses and Fashion Jewelry:

https://www.facebook.com/buy.sxm

EMERGENCY MEDICAL EVACUATION MEMBERSHIP PROGRAMS:

SkyMed International (Covers the entire USA, Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, the Bahamas, and
all the nations of the #Caribbean Global protection available. Sold only to Americans, Canadians,
and X-Pats living in these countries.)

FASHIONS FOR WOMEN

En Vogue, Billy Folly Road, Simpson Bay, opposite Atrium Hotel. (New 1/22)

FISHING CHARTERS

Taylor Made fishing charters, Captain Dougie. Full day or half day Call WhatsApp # 721-524-7510

Immigration (SXM Residency) / Relocation / Business Formation /"Papers" Consulting Companies

BrightPath/Caribbean is posting in our Everything St. Maarten / St. Martin / SXM Facebook Group

JEWELERS:

Zhaveri Jewelers in Philipsburg.

Caribbean Gems

Oro Diamante

Majesty Jewelers

Ray's Jewelers

Alpha Jewels

JN Jewelers (Maho under Jax, open late) NEW!

Jewels & Beyond (Maho) NEW!

Shoppers Haven

Royal Jewelers (new)

Kay's Fine Jewelry (new)

Joe's Jewelry International (new)

Ballerina Jewelers (new)

LIVE MUSIC

Hole in the Wall, Maho Plaza, Dutch side

MAPS (SXM MAPS and others in the Caribbean)

Kasprowski Publisher

PARFUMERIE / PERFUME

Tijon Parfumerie, Grand Case, www.tijon.com

PHARMACIES

Simpson Bay Pharmacy

Orange Grove Pharmacy

REAL ESTATE COMPANIES: (See also VILLA RENTAL COMPANIES, below)

Island Real Estate Team is widely regarded as SXM's top real estate organization. A long-time JMB Sponsor, they offer both residential and commercial real estate in every price range. Call the number that follows and ask to speak with the agent who handles what you seek: 1 721 520 7284. Please let the agent know that you were referred by Jeff Berger's Everything SXM Facebook Group.

Jennifer's Vacation Villas

Century 21 St. Maarten

Sunshine Properties

Candie Billant does condo and villa rentals and sales. You will find her at Caribbean Estate Agency N. V.

BrightFuture Real Estate (new)

My Net Immo (French Side, Muriel Lemoine)

40Weeks SXM Vacation rentals

RESORTS:

Baker's Suites

Belair Beach Hotel

Simpson Bay Resort

Azure Hotel & Art Studio

Mary's Boon (new 1/22)

RESTAURANTS, BARS, & BEACH BARS

IZI

SPIGA

VESNA TAVERNA

ISOLA

Mandarin Asian Bistro (Port de Plaisance)

Melange (Port de Plaisance)

Pelican Bistro

Soggy Dollar Bar

Topper's Restaurant

LA PATRONA (Simpson Bay Resort)

MARIO'S BISTRO (Porto Cupecoy)

NAVY BEACH

BOVIN STEAKHOUSE

Pineapple Pete Restaurant

Wasabi Charlie Japanese Restaurant

Emilio's

Taloula's Blue Bitch Bar

Nowhere Special

ROXXY Bar / Restaurant

LA ROSA

NONNA ROSA

LAZY LIZARD

RANCHO (new)

SUNSET CAFE (new)

AVANTIKA (new)

MOVIDA (new)

ASTRA (new)

JAI'S CONTEMPORARY INDIAN RESTAURANT (new)

COFFEE LOUNGE & More, Head of town in Philipsburg & Simpson bay near Domino's (new)

BUCCANEER BEACH BAR

NAVY BEACH

BAMBOO HOUSE (new 5/16/22)

RESTAURANT ORDERING ONLINE

Orders.sx

SOUVENIRS

Flamboyant on The Boardwalk, Philipsburg (new 1/22)

SPAS

Sunset Spa, Simpson Bay Resort (11/21)

STAR WARS / YODA GUY MUSEUM

Nick Malley, Front Street

VILLA RENTALS / RENTAL COMPANIES:

Candie Billant does condo and villa rentals and sales. You will find her at #Caribbean Estate Agency N. V.

GoBeach Vacations

Sunshine Properties

Monte Verde / Belle Vue

Villa Acropole:
www.acropole-stmartin.com

Villa Vijoux:
https://www.facebook.com/VillaVijoux

Villa Steel Magnolias (new 1/22)

40Weeks SXM Vacation Rentals (new)

Villa En'sea 5 bedroom Villa, overlooking Philipsburg bay (new)

Villa Kimon

Daffodil Villa

Wedding Planners / Wedding Venues

Fawnette Scott-Angelides - Azure Hotel and Art Studio (Fawnette is a minister and she owns Azure,
a venue on beautiful Simpson Bay Beach, where beach weddings are her specialty)

Sint Maarten Marry-Me Destination Weddings (new)

Updated 5/16/22

44. Join Our New Conversational Everything SXM Group on MeWe, the Facebook Alternative

For years, you have been able to obtain a great deal of SXM information and photos/videos in our Everything SXM Facebook Group. Unfortunately, not everyone is a fan of Facebook, so we have started a new Everything SXM group on a platform that has become a strong competitor Facebook �ߡ�it is called MeWe.

We urge all fans of SXM Weekly News to become members of MeWe and join our group there; here is the link.

45. First Responders Now Get Platinum-Status JMB Discounts

If you're U. S. Military with a DD214, you're able to get a Platinum-Status Military JMB Membership for $16.99/year, the lowest we ever charge anyone. You get instant Platinum Status which is permanent as long as you're a JMB member plus 300+ SXM discounts and other benefits. All you do is pay for four years to start and renew in four-year increments ($67.96). Nobody else pays so little -- our small way of expressing how grateful we all are for your service.

And now we're adding police, firefighters, EMTs, and nurses to our just-renamed Military / First Responder Memberships in recognition of their sacrifices for the rest of us every single day. We just need you to send us documentary proof (ID) that you're one of America's very best. To sign up or upgrade your JMB membership to Military / First Responders, visit everythingsxm.com and click the page curl to sign up for your JMB military membership (the page still says Military). We'll also need a DD214 (or other police / fire / nursing ID) with your SS# obliterated for security. We'll be delighted to welcome you all to our new best-of-all JMB Website Supporters Platinum Memberships.

46. Want to See Back Issues of SXM Weekly News? Here's How

Our SXM Weekly News PDF archives enable you to download any issue of Weekly News published since Spring 2014, including our amazing 2018 April Fools' Day parody and many Special Editions.

Check it out here. It has just been thoroughly updated. Each week's newsletter is usually added within a few days after mailing of that issue to its subscribers completes (Monday).

Ask Jeff for details -- call him at 508-591-3483. More info? See skymed.com/jmb or email Jeff at jeff.berger@skymed.com. SkyMed is the Principal Sponsor of JMB SXM programs.

47. SXM Business Owners: How To Increase Foot & Web Traffic

SXM Weekly News, our everythingSXM.com website and its Hurricane Center, and our Everything SXM Facebook Group �ߡ�along with our many Vacation Giveaways and hundreds of benefits of JMB Website Supporters membership �ߡ�are all made possible through our partnerships with our JMB Website Supporters members and our Sponsors.

Our JMB SXM Web Media Sponsorships enable SXM businesses to present their products or services to a huge, responsive audience of tourists from around the world, but primarily the USA and Canada. (Our site is based in the U. S. and is focused on the needs of tourists traveling to SXM.) If you own an SXM business and want to look into and take advantage of this unique marketing opportunity, please email susank@jmbcommunications.com with the subject "JMB Sponsorships". Or PM us on FB for an even faster response. We'll get complete information to you quickly.(Or again, just PM Jeff Berger on Facebook Messenger or phone us / text us on WhatsApp at 721-588-4188.)

Tourism is returning in a big way and with it, plenty of opportunity to bring more tourists into your business not only in the short term, but especially as tourist business increases in the months ahead. Contact us today for more information.

****************************************************************************************************************************************

St. Maarten / St. Martin Homes, Villas, Businesses, Commercial Properties, and Residential Properties for Sale (NEW):

Click to access our recommended real estate agent, Arun Jagtiani, featured on HGTV.

Rent Out or Sell Your Timeshare (both SXM and Worldwide)��-- Frequently Updated

JMB members can run up to 10 free ads on our website per 12-month period to rent out or sell St. Maarten / St. Martin timeshare weeks they own -- or any timeshares, anywhere worldwide. If you're not a member, learn more about membership��here: http://everythingsxm.com/sxm/about_sxm/paypal.shtml .

Want to rent or buy a week?

"2022 St. Maarten / St. Martin Timeshare Weeks For Rent or Sale" are posted at
http://everythingsxm.com/sxm/timeshare_rent_sale/index.shtml��Listings are now updated weekly. Ads are free (no commission) but are accepted from our JMB Website Supporters members only.

SECTION 5: For Members Only

A. Where to Get Member Info: www.everythingsxm.com/secret
B. Password Recovery Info: Your username is the email address you have registered with JMB Website Supporters. If you forget your password, click "forgot / change password" in the orange login box near the masthead at www.everythingsxm.com. To change your password, click that same link.
C. How To Submit Rental or Sale Ads or Update the Price in an Ad: See www.everythingsxm.com/secret .Your username and password are required.

SECTION 6: Background Information for Travelers (For New Readers) Updated 7/2017

See www.everythingsxm.com.

About Email Address Changes / How To Unsubscribe (Updated 4/17/17)

To unsubscribe, go here: www.sxmweeklynews.com. You CAN NOT unsubscribe either by replying to this email or, if you are an AOL user, by clicking the *spam* button on AOL.

To change your email address, visit www.sxmweeklynews.com; unsubscribe your old email address and subscribe your new one. JMB Website Supporters members should notify Membership Services of the new email address for continued Secret Site access.

Get Your Own Free Copy Of St. Maarten and St. Martin Weekly News:
http://www.everythingsxm.com/cgi-bin/dada/mail.cgi?

LEGAL:

Entire contents copyright (c), JMB Communications, 2022. World rights reserved. Excerpting, quotation, and republication, in any form, print, electronic, or archival, is expressly prohibited without written advance permission. You can forward this newsletter in its entirety only to your friends. For reprint permission, email us. JMB vigorously defends its copyrights. *Everything St. Maarten*, *Everything SXM*, and *Everything St. Martin* are service marks of JMB Communications. *JMB Communications* is a trademark of JMB Communications, P. O. Box 1812, Plymouth, Massachusetts 02362-1812 USA. Join our free St. Maarten / St. Martin newsletter mailing list at http://www.everythingsxm.com . You cannot join by emailing us.

Our email headers also contain subscribe / unsubscribe / address change links.

Contact Us (Revised 11/22/21)

SkyMed Answers to Questions or to Sign Up by Phone: If you’re interested in learning more about SkyMed, contact Jeff Berger at jeff.berger@skymed.com. Leave your phone number and time zone and he’ll return your call. SkyMed is sold only to Americans, Canadians, and xPats. If you prefer, phone Jeff at 508-591-3483
and leave a message; that is a NEW NUMBER.
JMB Membership Questions/Issues -- JMB Website Supporters: Use WhatsApp to send questions to Membership Services; use Jeff Berger’s WhatsApp phone number, 721-588-4188, but call or TEXT (texting is
preferred) from within the WhatsApp application only. Membership Services at our headquarters in Massachusetts handles all these calls. INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL, since all responses are made by email.

Our main St. Maarten / St. Martin website: www.everythingsxm.com .

Privacy Policy http://www.everythingsxm.com/sxm/privacy_policy/index.shtml (Updated 5/25/18)

Get Important SXM News as it Happens & Lots of Pictures Too from our Facebook, MeWe, and Twitter Pages:

Download PDFs of Recent Editions ---- Attention iPad, iPhone, Note, and Android Users

TABLE OF CONTENTS -- This Week's Stories

Section One: Getting Here: Flights, Airlines, Airports, Cruises, Going Home, Etc./ Weather --Scroll Down To This Section--

Section Two: Accommodations (Hotels, Resorts, Timeshares, Villas, Etc.)
--Scroll Down To This Section--

Section Three: JMB Member Discounts & Benefits
--Scroll Down To This Section--

Section Four: Island News, Info, & Features
--Scroll Down To This Section--

Section Five: For Members Only (Revised 8/2017)

Section Six: Where To Find Background Information for Travelers (For New Readers) (Revised 8/2017)

THIS WEEK'S STORIES:

SECTION 1: Getting Here: Flights, Airlines, Airports, Cruises, Covid, & Weather; Etc.

Rent Out or Sell Your Timeshare (both SXM and Worldwide)��-- Frequently Updated

SECTION 5: For Members Only

SECTION 6: Background Information for Travelers (For New Readers) Updated 7/2017

Get Important SXM News as it Happens & Lots of Pictures Too from our Facebook, MeWe, and Twitter Pages:

Download PDFs of Recent Editions ---- Attention iPad, iPhone, Note, and Android Users

TABLE OF CONTENTS -- This Week's Stories

Section One: Getting Here: Flights, Airlines, Airports, Cruises, Going Home, Etc./ Weather --Scroll Down To This Section--

Section Two: Accommodations (Hotels, Resorts, Timeshares, Villas, Etc.) --Scroll Down To This Section--

Section Three: JMB Member Discounts & Benefits --Scroll Down To This Section--

Section Four: Island News, Info, & Features --Scroll Down To This Section--

Section Five: For Members Only (Revised 8/2017)

Section Six: Where To Find Background Information for Travelers (For New Readers) (Revised 8/2017)

THIS WEEK'S STORIES:

SECTION 1: Getting Here: Flights, Airlines, Airports, Cruises, Covid, & Weather; Etc.

Rent Out or Sell Your Timeshare (both SXM and Worldwide)��-- Frequently Updated

SECTION 5: For Members Only

SECTION 6: Background Information for Travelers (For New Readers) Updated 7/2017

Section Two: Accommodations (Hotels, Resorts, Timeshares, Villas, Etc.)
--Scroll Down To This Section--

Section Three: JMB Member Discounts & Benefits
--Scroll Down To This Section--

Section Four: Island News, Info, & Features
--Scroll Down To This Section--